Griffith Observatory Visitor Access Program
Frequently Asked Questions
07-30-2007 Version
VISITOR ACCESS QUESTIONS
Do I need a timed-entry reservation?
Yes. During the period of high public demand, everyone trying to access the Observatory needs a timed-entry reservation. We established this system to balance the number of visitors to Griffith Observatory so that everyone can have the safest and most enjoyable experience.
Why is there a charge for visiting the Griffith Observatory?
As it has been since 1935, admission to Griffith Observatory continues to be free. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors during the period of high public demand, however, we have implemented the timed-entry and shuttle reservation system. The fees are solely to cover the cost of this temporary system. When the surge in demand has eased, the system will be discontinued.
Do infants, children, and seniors pay full price?
Children four years and under are free, but each child still needs a timed-entry reservation. Children ages 5-12 and Seniors 60-and-over are $4.00. ALL persons, including infants, must have a timed-entry and shuttle reservation. This enables us be in compliance with occupancy requirements established by the Los Angeles Fire Department.
What is the grace period for my timed-entry reservation?
We regret that we cannot accommodate same day changes in timed-entry reservation time. Your reservation is for the scheduled time of departure of your shuttle, not your time of arrival at the Observatory. Please board your shuttle on time. Those arriving earlier than their reservation time MAY be able to board an earlier shuttle, but this is not guaranteed and depends on availability. We cannot honor shuttle reservations 30 minutes before or 60 minutes after the scheduled time shown on your reservation. However, please note that the last bus departure of the evening from the Zoo is at precisely 7:00 p.m.; there will be NO shuttle departures after that time.
Are there additional timed-entry reservations available at the shuttle locations?
We recommend that visitors make advance reservations. However, it is possible that the reservation center at the Los Angeles Zoo shuttle location would have same-day reservations available.
Is there a fee for parking at the shuttle locations?
No
Is disabled parking available at Griffith Observatory?
No, but all shuttles are accessible for all visitors and can accommodate wheelchairs. Accessible parking is available at all shuttle departure locations.
Are strollers permitted?
Yes, both at the Observatory and on the shuttles.
VISITING QUESTIONS
What are Griffith Observatory’s hours of operation?
Tuesday through Friday: 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Mondays: Closed
The Observatory is also closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
May I bring food or drinks into the Observatory?
No. Food and drinks are not permitted in the building. You may purchase food and drinks at the Café at the End of the Universe.
Are there picnic facilities available?
No. Food and drinks are available from the Café at the End of the Universe.
Is smoking allowed at Griffith Observatory?
No. Smoking is prohibited at all facilities and grounds throughout Griffith Park, including the Observatory's interior, grounds, and parking lot. This is especially critical given the danger of fire in Griffith Park. Park Rangers will be enforcing the rules and the fines are very steep.
Are pets allowed?
Only certified guide dogs and “dogs in training” are permitted.
Where is Lost and Found?
Call Griffith Observatory at 213-473-0800, and ask for Lost and Found.
May I bring my skates/skateboard/scooter or any other wheeled toy device?
No. Such items are not permitted on the Observatory grounds OR on shuttles.
GENERAL INFORMATION QUESTIONS
How do I learn more about Griffith Observatory?
Explore the Observatory’s website at www.GriffithObservatory.org
How do I obtain more information about Friends Of The Observatory (FOTO)?
Visit FOTO’s website at www.FriendsOfTheObservatory.com Only members of FOTO are able to make advance reservations for shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, among other member benefits.
When did Griffith Observatory originally open?
May 14, 1935.
When did Griffith Observatory close for renovation and expansion?
January 6, 2002.
When did the Observatory reopen to the public?
November 3, 2006.
How much did it cost to renovate and expand Griffith Observatory?
The Griffith Observatory renovation and expansion project cost $93 million. Roughly two-thirds of the funds came from public sources, primarily city, county, and state bond funding. Friends Of The Observatory (FOTO) directly raised nearly a third of the required funds and also participated actively in securing much of the other funding for the project.
When may my school come to Griffith Observatory again?
The Observatory successfully conducted Phase 1 of a pilot program of reserved school visits in spring 2007. We will be implementing Phase 2 of the pilot program in fall 2007, with an expansion in both the scope of the program and the number of students served. Check the Observatory's website at http://www.griffithobservatory.org/school.html for more information.
When may I rent space at Griffith Observatory for an event or meeting?
Use of space at the Observatory requires a clear linkage to/with the Observatory's mission of public astronomy and science. No rentals are possible at any time for personal events (e.g., birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, bar mitzvahs). Please check the website at www.GriffithObservatory.org (under the Contact Us tab) for more information.
